Graham Rowntree, British and Irish Lions coach, confirmed that lock Geoff Parling will start the second Test against the Aussies instead of Paul O’Connell, who is currently injured, and rugby spread betting fans would like to see a very good performance by the player.

Rugby spread betting fans were very concerned when they found out that O’Connell, veteran star for Ireland, fractured his arm during the 23-21 series-opening win on Saturday in Brisbane, and team doctors told the player that he cannot continue his tour.

England’s Parling – who is very famous with rugby spread betting fans – was expected to captain the tourists in the match against the Melbourne Rebels on Tuesday, but rugby betting UK services found out that he was stood down so he can get ready for Saturday’s rematch at Etihad Stadium with the Wallabies.

Rowntree said: “Geoff has been doing very well coming off the bench and he took his chance when he started as well. We’ve got good cover there so it’s a chance for him.”

On former England prop O’Connell, he added: “He’s a big influence on the group and was playing exceptionally well. You’ve got to get on with these things – that’s why we brought so many players.

“Whether he’ll stay or not, I don’t know. I’d like him too because of his influence around the group. We’ll find out in the next few days what he’s going to do.”

Sky Sports pundit Stuart Barnes and many rugby spread betting fans are certain that O’Connell will continue to help motivate the squad.

He said: “It’s a three-man leadership team as I see it – O’Connell in the tight five, Sam Warburton as captain and Brian O’Driscoll. To lose one is a big blow but I wouldn’t be surprised if he decides to stay.

“Even though he can do no more on the field of play, in training, in motivation and in just being Paul O’Connell, he still has a role to play in the Lions’ bid for glory.”

Rugby betting UK services also learned that earlier on Monday, eyebrows were raised when a citing commissioner cleared James Horwill of stamping on Alun-Wyn Jones during a very brutal first Test – but Rowntree refused to make any comments.

DO you have players? We can handle them for you.

When asked about the decision made, he said: “It’s happened. We move on. I’ve got enough to worry about in terms of looking forward to this week’s Test, changing personnel and the game tomorrow night. We’ll just accept that decision and get on with it.”